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College of Engineering, Forestry, and Natural Sciences2017-2018

School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science

Available Emphasis Areas:

Applied Geology - Emphasis

Geophysics - Emphasis

Paleontology - Emphasis

This degree attracts students who are curious about geologic hazards, the evolution of the Earth, and what lies beneath the landscape. The program incorporates field-work, laboratory experience, and specialized computer programs that help unveil the secrets of the Earth’s infrastructure.

Careers

What Can I Do with a Bachelor of Science in Geology?

Do earthquakes, landslides, and tsunamis intrigue you? Are you fascinated by volcanoes, canyons, and dinosaurs? Want a career that keeps you grounded while letting you travel through time? Then consider a B.S. in Geology from Northern Arizona University. Here, you can study nature most dramatic events and discover where precious resources like water, minerals, and fossil fuels are found, and why.

As you study, you can also learn more about careers in geoscience research, resource discovery and management, and education. You will experience an interdisciplinary approach to earth science, and will gain critical skills with field and analytical techniques. You'll find plenty of opportunities to work on faculty research projects and be encouraged to design your own studies, too.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:

Consulting firm

Engineering firm

Marketing and research firm

Mining company

With further education, one of these paths is possible:

Geophysicist

Mining engineer

Paleontologist

Petroleum geologist

University Requirements

To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.

At least 30 units of upper-division courses, which may include transfer work.

At least 30 units of coursework taken through Northern Arizona University, of which at least 18 must be upper-division courses (300-level or above). This requirement is not met by credit-by-exam, retro-credits, transfer coursework, etc.

A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on all work attempted at Northern Arizona University.

The Geology program in SESES develops an interdisciplinary base of knowledge that students use to understand the physical and biological history of the Earth and the evidence for that history. A distinguishing characteristic of geology is that it includes deep time in its understanding of terrestrial and solar system processes.

The Geology program is based on a strong foundation of physics, chemistry, and mathematics that provides an underpinning for the students as they move through the program and start to develop an appreciation for the complexities of interconnected Earth systems and their physical and chemical processes. Students work in field and lab environments, using the scientific method to develop an understanding of Earth materials and to synthesize information from diverse sources and methods to interpret the geological history of the Earth and the processes that occur on and below its surface. This includes the analysis of topographic maps 40 and remote sensing images using GIS tools to study the three-dimensional geometry of rock units, as well as geochemical and geophysical data obtained in the field and laboratory.

The three emphases within the program allow the students to develop a deeper understanding of specific fields within the subject and to prepare themselves for a range of professional opportunities. These enable them to explore the use of a range of geophysical and geochemical data and understand how to apply it to solve environmental and geotechnical problems. The program also provides experience in studying the interactions of humans with Earth systems using mathematical, physical, and chemical methods.

Student Learning Outcomes

Analyze interconnected Earth systems, with special emphasis on the physical and chemical processes that result from plate tectonics and its role in Earth history.

Demonstrate an understanding of Earth materials, their physical properties and behavior as recorders of geological processes.

Synthesize various types of field information such as, orientation of linear and planar features, stratigraphic principles, and spatial relationships of rock units to interpret the geological history of the Earth.

Be able to read geologic literature and present geoscientific information clearly and concisely in written, graphical, visual, and oral forms.

If you don’t meet these requirements, you must apply to the program by writing a letter of application, supported by current transcripts, before entering GLG 309. Send your application to the program coordinator of the Geology Program (see School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability for more information).

General Electives

Additional coursework is required, if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.

You may take these remaining courses from any academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you. (Please note that you may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.)

Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also take. For prerequisite information click on the course or see your advisor.

Additional Information

Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Program

This program is available as an Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan. Accelerated Programs provide the opportunity for outstanding undergraduates working on their bachelor’s degree to simultaneously begin work on a master’s degree, which may allow them to complete both degrees in an accelerated manner by applying 6 units toward both degrees. Students must apply to the accelerated program and the master’s program by the application deadline, and meet all requirements as listed on the Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Programs to be considered for admission. Admission to programs is competitive and qualified applicants may be denied because of limits on the number of students admitted each year. Be sure to speak with your advisor regarding your interest in Accelerated Programs.

PROGRAM FEE INFORMATION

Program fees are established by the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR). A program fee of $700 per semester for 3 semesters in the students' Junior and Senior years has been approved for this program.